The International Labour Organization Global Skills Programme has equipped 40 TVT trainers and higher education instructors from Wolaita Sodo and surrounding institutions with practical tools to integrate core skills into teaching, learning, assessment and workplace-based training, strengthening efforts to improve graduate employability and workplace readiness in Ethiopia.
The Training of Trainers programme, held from 28 to 31 July 2026 in Hawassa, was organized through a partnership between the ILO Global Skills Programme and Wolaita Sodo University. It focused on helping instructors embed core skills into curricula, classroom delivery, mentoring, assessment and institutional action plans.
© ILO/Homa M. Ejeta
As the world of work continues to evolve through digital transformation, technological innovation, globalization and the green economy, graduates need more than technical expertise. They also need transferable skills that help them communicate, collaborate, solve problems, adapt to change and continue learning throughout their careers.
Over four days, participants engaged in interactive sessions, group work, presentations and practical exercises. The sessions covered the ILO core skills global framework, learner-centred teaching approaches, workplace communication, teamwork and conflict management, self-leadership, emotional intelligence, digital skills, basic skills for green jobs and core skills assessment.
© ILO/Homa M. Ejeta
For Ashenafi Bergene, Instructor at Gabela TVT College, communication stood out as a core driver of employability.
"Communication skill is the most essential core skill for improving graduates' employability. Employers value graduates who can express ideas clearly, listen actively, write professionally and work effectively with others," he said.
The training addressed this need by strengthening participants' knowledge and practical capacity in communication, teamwork, critical thinking, problem solving, adaptability, leadership, digital literacy, professionalism, entrepreneurship and green skills.
Dr. Medhanit Edda from Wolaita Sodo University said the training helped shift teaching from teacher-centred delivery to more learner-centred learning.
"I will make my class learner-centred and give learners opportunities to develop communication, adaptability, resilience, critical thinking and teamwork skills," she said. "Interactive and practical sessions helped me bring activities to my class that prepare learners for the realities of the workplace and the future of work."
The programme also emphasized the role of TVT and higher education institutions in aligning education with labour market needs. Participating trainers and instructors explored how to integrate core skills into teaching and assessment using competency-based, workplace-oriented and learner-centred approaches.
For Kuku Bushure from Wolaita Sodo University, critical thinking and problem solving are essential for a changing economy.
"In today's rapidly changing economy, technical knowledge can become obsolete quickly, but the ability to analyse situations, question assumptions and create solutions remains timeless," she said. "I will move beyond lecture-only formats and use case-based learning and project-based assessments."
The Training of Trainers model is designed to create a multiplier effect. Participants are expected to serve as master trainers and change agents within their institutions, cascading the knowledge and skills gained to colleagues and helping institutionalize core skills in teaching, learning and assessment systems.
A key output of the training was the preparation of action plans. These plans will guide participants in applying core skills approaches in their workplaces, supporting continuous professional development and strengthening institutional mechanisms for implementation.
Dr. Nigatu Toma from Wolaita Sodo University said integrating core skills into technical education will help graduates meet labour market demands and adapt to change.
"By integrating communication, teamwork, problem solving, digital literacy, critical thinking, entrepreneurship and adaptability into technical training, graduates will be better prepared to meet labour market demands and adapt to changing technologies," he said. "This will enhance employability, decrease youth unemployment and support self-employment and innovation."
© ILO/Homa M. Ejeta
By equipping trainers and instructors with practical methods to embed core skills, the initiative aims to improve the quality and relevance of education and training. It also contributes to stronger graduate employability, more responsive institutions and better pathways to decent work.
The initiative supports Ethiopia's education and TVT reforms, the ILO Skills and Lifelong Learning agenda, and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 on quality education and SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth.
Through this partnership, the ILO Global Skills Programme and Wolaita Sodo University aim to promote a sustainable model for integrating core skills into education and training systems. The approach is expected to support a more adaptable, innovative and competitive workforce that can respond to the evolving demands of the labour market.
About ILO's Global Skills Programme
ILO's Global Skills Programme supports countries in building inclusive, demand-driven skills systems. It promotes lifelong learning to help individuals adapt to evolving labour markets. The programme emphasizes social dialogue, equitable access and quality assurance in skills development. It aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, aiming to enhance employability and productivity worldwide. The Global Skills Programme is funded by Norway, through Norad, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation.
